Sterling: 'I wish I had just paid her off'

(SportsNetwork.com) - Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling broke his silence for the first time since he was banned for life by the NBA on Tuesday for racist comments that emerged last weekend.

In an interview with DuJour magazine's Jason Binn, Sterling said "I wish I had just paid her off," referring to girlfriend V. Stiviano, who reportedly released to the media the audio of the tirade from the Clippers owner.

"Sterling also expressed remorse for the way his situation unfurled," according to the magazine.

Additionally, Sterling told the DuJour that he would only do interviews with Barbara Walters and the NBA.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver is also urging NBA owners to force Sterling to sell the franchise he has owned since 1981.

On another front, the New York Post cites a source as saying the 80-year-old Sterling is suffering from prostate cancer. Another source told the paper it was thought Sterling would die two years ago.

Stiviano, speaking during an interview with Walters Friday night, said Sterling should apologize for the remarks. She said she believes Sterling feels "very confused." She added, "I think he feels very alone and not truly supported by those around him."

Speaking to Walters, Stiviano said she believes Sterling feels "tormented and emotionally traumatized.

"I'm with him in a state where I want to help him, urging him to come to his own rescue," she told Walters. Stiviano said she believes Sterling not only should apologize, but that she spoke with the Clippers owner and "only God knows" if he will.

Stiviano described her love for Sterling like that of a "father-figure."